with you, indeed I do. But I have to live with them and so, for
comfort's sake, I've had to make compromises. And you're going to
live in our midst from now on, aren't you? Well then, you'll have
to make compromises, too--if you want any peace.

MARTHA--But-compromises about what? [Forcing a laugh.] I refuse to
take it seriously. How anyone could think--it's too absurd.

LILY--What set them going was Big's being around such an awful lot
the weeks Curt was in New York, just after you'd settled down
here. You must acknowledge he was-very much present then, Martha.

MARTHA--But it was on account of his children. They were always
with him.

LILY--The town doesn't trust this sudden fond parenthood, Martha.
We've known him too long, you see.

MARTHA--But he's Curt's oldest and best friend.

LILY--We've found they always are.

MARTHA--[Springing to her feet--indignantly.] It's a case of evil
minds, it seems to me--and it would be extremely insulting if I
didn't have a sense of humor. [Resentfully.] You can tell your
family, that as far as I'm concerned, the town may--

LILY--Go to the devil. I knew you'd say that. Well, fight the good
fight. You have all my best wishes. [With a sigh.] I wish I had
something worth fighting for. Now that I'm through with college,